Darts Hill Garden is the result of over 70 years of work and dedication guided by the clear vision of Francisca Darts. Along with her husband Edwin, Francisca took a logged piece of land, turned it first into an award winning orchard and then into the unique garden that is Darts Hill today.
Francisca’s curiosity and love of the new and interesting has resulted in the most diverse collection of mature tree and shrub species in the Pacific Northwest. Many were planted from seed collected from around the world.
In 1994 Edwin and Francisca Darts donated their 7.5-acre garden to the City of Surrey and its citizens. Their intention was to give Surrey its own garden to be used as a horticultural centre for the preservation, enhancement, and development of plants. The non-profit Darts Hill Garden Conservancy Trust Society works in partnership with the City of Surrey towards these goals.
In 2017, Darts Hill Garden Park will feature twice as many public openings as in past years. During April, May, June, July, and September, the Garden will be open (with only a few exceptions) every Saturday and Sunday for Garden Strolls or special events. Please check out our events calendar for further details and confirmation of openings. For a truly customized experience, book a private guided tour for your friends, family, or organization. Jump to our tours section to learn more.
Springtime is considered by many to be the height of beauty at Darts Hill. During April, May, and June, you’ll see a succession of flowering trees, shrubs, perennials, and bulbs – many of them rarely seen in other gardens. Rhododendrons and magnolias will be at their peak throughout these months – be sure to schedule several visits, as the colours and points of interest in the Garden are constantly changing. This year, our brand new Woodland Garden will be of special interest to new and returning visitors as it comes into bloom for the first time.
To fully enjoy and contribute to this exceptional plantsman’s garden, please consider the advantages of becoming a member. Learn more here.
Follow the Garden’s extraordinary history from its start in the 1940s to its donation to the City of Surrey.
